[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 57 (Wednesday, April 21, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E604]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING PATRICK GAMBLE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DON YOUNG

                               of alaska

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 21, 2010

  Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. Madam Speaker, today I would like to recognize 
Patrick Gamble for his service to Alaska and our Nation.
  A decorated Vietnam fighter pilot and now retired Four-Star General, 
Pat served in the United States Air Force for 34 years and 
distinguished himself as a decisive and capable leader. His military 
service first brought him to live in Alaska in 1996 as the commander of 
Alaska's joint military command. Like so many of us who have moved into 
the State, he was enchanted by the Last Frontier and has remained under 
its spell.
  After retiring from the Air Force, he returned to Alaska as President 
and CEO of the Alaska Railroad, the Nation's only full service, year 
round scheduled passenger and freight railroad, and in my opinion, the 
most scenic railroad in the country. It stands as a pillar in Alaska's 
economy and will play a key role in the future of our great State. 
Through Pat's vision, the railroad has grown dramatically and promoted 
economic development throughout communities along the railbelt.
  Pat was recently selected to replace Mark Hamilton as the President 
of the University of Alaska, the State's 15-campus university system 
which provides for the educational needs of 32,000 students every year. 
This new position is a continuation of many years of educational 
leadership, including having served as the commandant of the U.S. Air 
Force Academy and on the boards of five schools. In addition to 
ensuring a quality education, he plans to focus his efforts as 
university president on gaining more public support for the University 
of Alaska, continuing the university's strong presence in research 
important to Alaskans, and engaging the university in broader State 
economic development opportunities.
  General Gamble has earned himself a reputation as a strong leader and 
a man of outstanding personal character. He is an excellent asset to 
our State, and I am proud to have this opportunity to commend his 
continued service to Alaska.

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